Cycling and Hiking in Gozo

Gozo's hilly countryside

If hiking is your thing, pack light and be prepared for some challenging routes and beautiful panoramic views.

The characteristic hills that are spread throughout the island of Gozo provide some stunning scenery for any outdoor adventure. These often gently sloping hills also provide vantage points to take in the expansive countryside and seascapes. Whether on foot or pedalling your way through the back roads and country paths, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking a route.

While not exactly the Himalayas, the hilly countryside can be quite exerting. For the best views, you’ll want to stick to the coastline. Much of Gozo’s coast is made up of sheer cliffs and the entire coast can be circumnavigated over a period of 4 to 5 days. This popular trek usually involves hiking a section of the coast, then taking a bus back to a base, and restarting the next day from where you left off. If you’re reasonably fit, you can accomplish the whole coast without any difficulty. Be sure to stop and take in the village life as often as possible. Locals are very friendly and will eagerly share the best route advice. Inland treks are also rewarding, although you’re more likely to encounter cars and crowds.

Cyclists touring the island will want to stick to the country roads and avoid the main thoroughfares connecting the villages, although even these tend to be far less busy than what you’d find in larger countries. A reasonably fit cyclist will find no major difficulty crossing the Island in a day. If you’ve travelled to Gozo without a bike, fret not, there are plenty of places to rent a bicycle from, with very favourable rates.

As for weather, this destination allows both hikers and cyclists to enjoy the scenery all year round. However, you’ll want to apply plenty of sunscreen and avoid the mid-day sun in summer, while winter adventurers would do well to pack light rain gear in case of showers.